Chicago Tribune
- Recommended
"...The comedy here is fueled by its giddy trampling of English comportment, and Scott's ensemble nails it every time, including some savvy performances from Maura Kidwell (in a number of roles, including Lotte's dotty secretary) and Jim Morley as the buttoned-up solicitor who finds himself sitting smack in the middle of the Lettice-and-Lotte show. If only it were half as long."
Windy City Times
- Highly Recommended
"...The key to persuading us to buy into author Peter Shaffer's manifesto is to seduce, rather than overwhelm, us with its passion. Fortunately, director Steve Scott has at his disposal Millicent Hurley and Jan Ellen Graves, a pair of actresses who attack their roles with a gusto never spilling over into excess. In the tiny Redtwist Theatre storefront where the energy from the stage is capable of filling the room to its corners, the conjuration always begins quietly, gradually swelling to its crescendo with each of us following as entranced as the subordinate characters likewise drawn in. If, at curtain call, you feel an inexplicable impulse to rise up and give three cheers, you won't be alone."
Centerstage
- Recommended
"...For some plays, charm is everything. Peter Shaffer's "Lettice and Lovage," for example, would have little to recommend it if produced without a whole lot of charm. Luckily, Steve Scott's intimate production at Redtwist is graced with delightful performances by Millicent Hurley and Jan Ellen Graves, as well as a nimble supporting cast and designs that make the very best of the tiny stage. Together they make for a very fun show that almost covers the script's problems."
Chicagoist
- Somewhat Recommended
"...Lettice’s motto in life, an adage passed down to her from her mother, is “Enlarge! Enliven! Enlighten!” If there was a part of this show that was supposed to enlarge, enliven or enlighten us, we missed it. If a company is going to take on a flawed play, it needs to aim higher."
Edge
- Recommended
"...This is the battle cry for Lettice Douffet, the eccentric tour guide with a penchant for the dramatic in Peter Shaffer’s charming play, Lettice and Lovage. It’s interesting, then, that Redtwist, with their cozy performance space that seats just under 40, would choose to stage a show that begs for grand comedy. However, with addictive chemistry from its two leading ladies and effective use of the unconventional space by director Steve Scott, this production doesn’t so much leap off the stage into our hearts, as it does slowly -- but most assuredly -- win you over with its unending spirit."
Time Out Chicago
- Recommended
"...Director Scott applies his customarily precise focus to this Redtwist production. He doesn’t lack for polished assistance: Jack Magaw and Christopher Kriz supply masterful set and sound design, respectively, and Hurley (in a flat-out marvelous performance) and Graves (in perfect pace) make the most of the verbal fireworks Shaffer, at his most generous, serves up here. Even given an intentionally overwritten third act that overplays its gambit just a bit, this is pretty much a joy from start to finish."
ChicagoCritic
- Highly Recommended
"...Each of the three acts have wacky plots twists as we see a unique middle-aged female buddy play out as an intelligent contemporary comedy of manners—one filled with perceptive ideas and social commentary. You’ll love Millicent Hurley and Jan Ellen Graves as the two very British women seeking some fun. Good writing and passionate characters living out their imaginations equals terrific theatre. Lettice and Lovage is a hit. It is clever and hilarious."
Chicago Stage and Screen
- Highly Recommended
"...Redtwist Theatre is one of our wonderful little storefront theater ensembles. The new season is filled with psychological thrillers starting with a wonderful piece by Peter Shaffer ("Equus"), "Lettice and Lovage". This is the story of two English women and how their crossing of paths changes their lives forever. Director Steve Scott cleverly utilizes the intimacy of the Redtwist stage, with a marvelous set designed by Jack Magaw. We are treated to some fine acting by this small cast."
Chicago Theater Beat
- Highly Recommended
"...Beneath Lettice’s brave eccentricities lies the incapacity to accept the gross absurdities of capitalist civilization; just as beneath Lotte’s practicality lies a radical revulsion against modern ugliness. Their blossoming friendship gives them the freedom to be themselves with each other and, who knows, perhaps create an alternative future. For a couple of hours, we get to steep in the light of their growing bond with each other and enjoy the freedom of their bloodless revolution."
